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Diagnostics (X-Ray, MRI)

Radiology

Radiology uses imaging technology to diagnose various disorders in a minimal duration of time. The techniques provide images of internal organs to establish the exact stage of a disease. A radiologist is a medical doctor specializing in the interpretation of the results of the imaging techniques (X-ray, CT-scan, MRI and others).

Diagnostic radiology involves the use of imaging techniques such as X-ray, MRI, CT-scan, Positron Emission Tomography (PET), ultrasound and mammography to obtain images of the internal structures of the body.

X-Ray

X-ray technology is used for the examination of internal organs, bones, blood vessels, and the progression of diseases such as cancer.  It can also detect infection, blockages and foreign objects.

An X-ray procedure typically involves the following steps:

  • Lying or standing, or holding a certain position, depending on the part of your body to be imaged.
  • A contrast material or dye may be injected into a specific part of your body to obtain a more detailed view.
  • The X-ray machine captures an image of the specified region.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

This is a computer-based imaging technique that creates a magnetic field inside your body to obtain images. The images of nerves or soft tissue inside your body are obtained.

This technique is effective in diagnosing cancer, strokes, nerve injury, brain or spinal cord injury, heart problems and abnormalities of the internal organs. It does not use radiation and therefore does not cause any radiation damage.

An MRI imaging procedure involves the following steps:

  • You must not wear any metal (as the machine uses a very strong magnet), and you will have to remove hearing aids, wigs, watches, or eyeglasses.
  • You may need to swallow a contrast preparation or have an IV line started in your arm if the MRI requires contrast dye. Inform your technician if you have or feel any allergy symptoms such as sneezing or itching.
  • You will lie on a table which slides inside the MRI machine.
  • It is normal to hear loud tapping sounds during the scan.
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